Resource
Licensed Building Practitioners (LBP) Explained
What an LBP is, what it means for your build, and how to check one.
A Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) is a builder or tradesperson who has been assessed as competent and is licensed under New Zealand's LBP scheme — a government scheme run by MBIE under the Building Act 2004. For most homeowners it's one of the most important boxes to tick when choosing who works on your home.
What an LBP can — and can't — do
Restricted Building Work (the structural and weathertight parts of a home) must be carried out or supervised by an LBP. That's the scheme's whole point: the work that keeps your home standing and dry is done by someone proven to be competent and accountable.
LBPs aren't just carpenters. The scheme covers designers, roofers, foundation specialists, external plasterers, and brick and block layers — each licensed for their own class of work.
How to check someone's LBP
Anyone can check the public LBP register on the official government website — search the person's name to confirm they're licensed and in good standing. Every LBP also carries a photo ID licence you can ask to see. Always check before signing anything.
Paperwork that protects you
When the job's done, your LBP provides a Record of Work (RoW) to you and the council. Without it, the council can't issue a Code Compliance Certificate — and no CCC means headaches with insurance and real problems when you sell. It's one more reason using licensed pros isn't optional on restricted work.
Why RB Thomas is LBP-certified
RB Thomas has had an LBP in charge from day one, back in 2015. We're Licensed Building Practitioners and New Zealand Certified Builders. It means you're dealing with qualified, accountable builders — not salespeople — and your restricted building work is in safe hands.